Monday, May 18, 2015
Good morning,
The month of May is college graduation month and this past weekend, the graduating students, now alumni, of Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, Texas celebrated the 100 year graduation at the University. #43, President George W. Bush delivered the commencement speech. Texans love #43, and let’s face it, most Americans do as well, regardless of their political affiliation.
President Bush’s wife, Laura is a graduate of SMU and is also on the Board of Trustees of the University, and of course the Bush Library is on campus, so when the leaders of the Class of 2015 were looking for the best commencement speaker they could find for the 100 Commencement of the University, there was only one that would do, and he spoke from the heart.
President Bush was humorous, charismatic and humble, and his message was a reminder not just for the graduating students, but for all that were there.
He congratulated those graduating with high honors, awards, and distinctions and said, “well done.” Then stated, “And as I like to tell the “C” students: You, too, can be President.”
He shared a story that his pastor told about how Moses recognized the call to serve something greater than himself. He answered the call, led his people and history was made. Then he continued, (and I will paraphrase):
“You, too, will be called at some point. The question, is: Will you be optimistic and hopeful, or pessimistic and cynical? Here are three reasons why you should be optimistic and hopeful.
One, you are graduating from a great university. Your degree will open the door to a wide variety of career options. Millions will never have had this opportunity. SMU has laid a foundation so you can reason, and continue to learn throughout your life. It has given you the tools to be productive citizens. One of the great strengths of America is our active public square. Issues are influenced by the will of the people. That is why an educated citizenry is so important to the success of our country. As graduates, you are well-equipped to participate in these vital debates. My hope is that you speak out on the issues that matter to you. Participate in your Nation’s civic life as citizens, not spectators. You’ll come to learn that who you are is more important than what you have—and that you have responsibilities to your fellow citizens, your country, and your family. By taking part in American democracy, you will make our country stronger.
Secondly, you are blessed to live in the greatest Nation – ever. Here you can strive and succeed as far as you dare to dream. It says something about our country that millions around the world are willing to leave their homes and families and risk everything to come here and realize the American dream. Their pursuit of that dream invigorates our national soul. It renews our country’s character. And it adds vitality to our culture. You live in a land that is compassionate and decent. Because we believe in the rights and dignity of our own citizenry, we are committed to defending the rights and dignity of people everywhere. America has liberated millions around the world from tyranny and terror. We’ve helped turn the tide against deadly disease in places like Africa. In our hearts we believe all are created equal under God. The liberty we prize is not America’s gift to the world, it is Almighty God’s gift to humanity. At home, there are thousands of platoons in the Army of compassion working to honor those beliefs. No matter what your career path, enlist. When you help another, you enrich your heart, and you strengthen the fabric of our collective goodness. As you serve others, you can inspire others.
And finally, you can be hopeful because there is a loving God. Whether you agree with that statement or not is your choice. It is not your government’s choice. It is essential to this nation’s future that we remember that the freedom to worship who we want, and how we want—or not worship at all—is a core belief of our founding. I have made my choice. I believe that the Almighty’s grace and unconditional love will sustain you. I believe it will bring you joy amidst the trials of life. It will enable you to better see the beauty around you. It will provide a solid foundation amidst a rapidly changing, somewhat impersonal, technologically-driven world. It will show you how to love your neighbor, forgive more easily, and approach success with humility—and failure without fear. It will inspire you to honor your parents and eventually be a better spouse and parent yourself. It will help you fully grasp the value of life—all life. It will remind you that money, power, and fame are false idols. And I hope and believe that God’s love will inspire you to serve others.”
President Bush delivered a passionate and inspirational message that gave strength and encouragement to our next generation of leaders. I look forward to seeing them take action.